Coin of Kyzikos under Gallienus c. 3th century

Editor: Here we have a coin of Kyzikos under Gallienus. It’s quite worn, but you can still make out the figures. What can you tell me about this coin from the Harvard Art Museums? Curator: This coin speaks volumes about power, representation, and cultural exchange in the Roman Empire. Consider how Gallienus used coinage - a form of mass media - to project his image and authority. Who was included, who was excluded, and what narratives were being reinforced? Editor: That's a great point. It makes me wonder about the lives of ordinary people. Curator: Exactly! Coins like this weren’t just currency; they were tools of propaganda. What does it mean to have your leader’s face, or chosen symbols, constantly circulating? What impact did that have on identity and social cohesion? Editor: I never thought of it that way. It's amazing how much you can learn from such a small object. Curator: Indeed. This coin isn't just metal; it's a window into a complex and often oppressive system of power. Examining it critically helps us understand how these dynamics continue to shape our world today.